Astral projection, also known as an out-of-body experience (OBE), is a phenomenon in which an individual's consciousness is said to separate from their physical body, allowing them to travel in a non-physical form in the astral plane. The term "astral projection" originates from the Latin word "astrum," meaning "star," and the concept is deeply rooted in various spiritual and esoteric traditions. In Hebrew, astral projection is referred to as התרחקות אסטרלית (hitrakut astralit). Other relevant translations include proyección astral in Spanish, projection astrale in French, and astrale Projektion in German. Proponents of astral projection often describe it as a state of consciousness where the astral body, a non-physical counterpart to the physical body, can explore different dimensions or planes of existence. This phenomenon has been explored in various cultural and religious contexts, including ancient Egyptian, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions, as well as in modern New Age spirituality. Skeptics, however, attribute such experiences to hallucinations, dreams, or psychological factors rather than actual out-of-body travel.
Interpretation of out-of-body experiences
In esotericism, astral projection is an intentional out-of-body experience (OBE) in which a subtle body, known as the astral body or body of light which consciousness functions separately through from the physical body, travels throughout the astral plane.